1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 89 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 225 kg more than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Opel Astra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata (129 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Astra. (127 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1998 Opel Astra | |
Make | Mazda | Opel |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Astra |
Year Released | 1996 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1389 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 129 Nm | 127 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 77.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 73.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1190 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2620 mm |